Is The Upcoming Eclipse Affecting Wyoming Drivers?

Have you noticed your road rage is getting worse? Does it seem Cowboy State drivers are acting more inconsiderate as we approach the 2017 Solar Eclipse? If you answered yes to either of the above questions, you might subscribe to the belief of the moon affecting moods and/or bodily functions.

Over the past two weeks, I've seen a man run a red light, from a complete stopped position, downtown and directly in front of two police vehicles ANDmany a rude driver or just all out bad driving throughout the state period.

I remember my mother (and to a greater extent, my grandmother) always saying "the moon must have changed" to explain erratic behavior. At one point before I had my tonsils removed, I remember they even checked some moon-cycle calendar before scheduling the surgery.

I'd also be remiss if I didn't mention the fact that the word lunatic is derived from the Latin word lunaticus, which literally means "of the moon" or "moonstruck".

Much of moon theories affecting moods, attitude or health stem from Lunar effects on great bodies of water, i.e. the ocean. Considering the human body is made up about 60% water (the percentage slightly differs depending on age and sex), it's no wonder these beliefs have gone on for so long. At this point in time, at least according to science, there is no definitive proof to support these theories. However, I'm still on the fence.

Whether the eclipse is scientifically to blame for the rash of bad drivers throughout the state is really a moot point anyway. With an estimated 35,000 additional bodies slated to be in Casper alone, it's probably a safe bet that the 2017 Solar Eclipse is at least partially to blame. Let's hope and pray it gets better instead of worse as we approach the day.